SUMMARY BACKGROUND

Summary description of the current economic development situation of the Southern Tier West region of New York State (Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany Counties), comprised of the northern-most counties in the federally designated Appalachia region. The region’s economic situation is consistent with this designation.

Labor Force

Decreasing labor force size, in contrast to increasing State and national labor forces.  Ongoing aging of the labor force. As aging workers retire, it will be difficult to replace them in terms of experience, overall productivity, and working culture.

High relative levels of attainment of high school education and associate’s degree are positives.

The low incidence of bachelor’s degree or advanced degree presents an obstacle to attracting employers requiring a high-skill labor force to the region.

Labor supply surplus of unutilized and underutilized workers and a productive work force with a good work ethic.

Shortages of skilled labor in specific occupations and skills sets (manufacturing and trades sector skills, computer skills, advanced manufacturing/STEM skills, soft skills).